Did you ever think that singing a song might help your math and reading skills, or that learning rhythms and tunes could improve your ability to conceptualise in 3-D? Research in Australia and other countries has demonstrated that young children’s involvement in musical programs enhances the development of concentration, listening, language, motor skills and spatial awareness. Early childhood music programs also foster self-esteem and provide opportunities for young children to begin developing and unfolding their intrinsic creativity and to appreciate the world around them in a fuller way.
Until recently, early childhood music programs in Australia have been predominantly American designed. However, talented Perth and Melbourne based music educators Julia Newton and Linda Pierard, recognising the need for Australian designed programs, have set to work to fill the gap. Julia and Linda are both highly qualified, and are very experienced in early childhood music education. Together they developed a series of programs which they called ‘MusikMakers’, spanning age groups from three to seven years. The programs utilise carefully designed sequences of activities which include vocal play, singing, movement, listening games and playing simple instruments. To broaden and reinforce class learning, home activities are also supplied, including a CD of songs featuring well known children’s entertainer Franciscus Henri.
Mapleton harper and story-teller Rebecca Hood has recently completed the MusikMakers teacher training and is currently spearheading the first MusikMakers programs on the Sunshine Coast. ‘It’s very exciting to be involved in introducing such a high quality educational program to the area’, said Rebecca. ‘Musikmakers is intended to be accessible for all children, not just those who are perceived as gifted or musically talented. All the programs have been carefully piloted, receiving unanimous support from parents, and are now being taught across five states’.
Rebecca will be offering MusikMakers Explorer’ classes for three to four year olds in the Palmwoods-Chevallum area during 2009. If you would like your child to experience the pleasure and stimulation of a ‘MusikMakers’ program please contact Rebecca on 5445 7478.
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